JOHESU Warns of Possible Strike Over Unmet Salary Agreement

The Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) has issued a warning about a potential strike against the Federal Government. This comes after the government did not fulfill its promise to adjust the Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS) and other agreements with health workers.

Dr. Kabiru Ado Sani, President of the Medical and Health Workers’ Union of Nigeria (MHWUN), spoke during a meeting in Abuja. He criticized the government for not honoring the Terms of Settlement that ended JOHESU’s 84-day nationwide strike in February 2026. He noted that the promised salary adjustment, due in April 2026, has not been implemented.

Sani expressed frustration that despite the sacrifices made by health workers during the previous strike, the government continues to delay fulfilling its commitments. He warned that the patience of union members is running thin and emphasized that the government’s failure to meet its obligations could lead to more unrest in the healthcare sector.

The union is also demanding payment of outstanding wages for its members, including those in non-hospital health institutions. Sani highlighted that the government’s inaction could worsen the already strained healthcare system in Nigeria.

He pointed out that the previous strike was suspended, not abandoned, and stressed that the responsibility to prevent another strike lies with the relevant government officials. Sani mentioned that JOHESU is awaiting further instructions from the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria regarding their demands.

In addition to the salary issues, Sani raised concerns about inadequate funding and poor working conditions in the healthcare sector. He noted that many healthcare professionals are leaving Nigeria due to these challenges. He urged the government to prioritize healthcare financing and improve workers’ welfare to ensure a functional health system.

Finally, Sani criticized the government’s budget allocation for health, which he described as insufficient. He also supported calls for a review of the national minimum wage, stating that rising living costs continue to affect workers’ quality of life.